Haith Finds Positives In Boston College Loss

December 9, 2009|Posted by Shandel Richardson on December 9, 2009 10:58 AM

CORAL GABLES _ — The Hurricanes suffered their first defeat Sunday at Boston College, but there were several positives.

With the exception of offensive rebounding, UM showed its young team should be able to compete in the ACC. The Hurricanes (8-1) fell 61-60 after rallying from a double-digit, second-half deficit. UM had a chance to steal the game, but guard Malcolm Grant missed the potential winning 3-pointer in the closing seconds.

"I was encouraged by how we played to get back in the game," UM coach Frank Haith said. "We had a chance to steal a road game. I thought we had an opportunity if a couple things could have gone our way."

The Hurricanes biggest problem was rebounding on the offensive end, with Boston College holding a 23-4 advantage. Not too many teams can win with that ratio. Haith said it's been an emphasis this week as the Hurricanes return to non-conference play Saturday against South Carolina State at BankUnited Center.

"We've normally been a good rebounding team throughout my time here," Haith said. "There were some things in terms of blocking out. We've done some work on it. It's like anything, you have things happen early in the year."

Another noticeable stat was forward Dwayne Collins playing just 18 minutes. Collins, the leading scorer, only logged a few minutes in the second half. Haith said it was because he felt Collins needed to play better. Collins finished with two points and one rebound.

"We needed a little bit more from him," Haith said. "We made some changes and ended up getting back in the game. Dwayne is hard on himself and he knows he's got to be a player for us. I know he didn't play his best, but he'll fight back."

A few thoughts:

-Haith said there is no timetable on the return of freshman Donnavan Kirk, who has been bothered with neck problems.

-Haith on the 8-1 start: "You've got to be pleased where we're at," he said. "It's only going to get better as the year progresses."

-I'll have some football notes later today. UM coach Randy Shannon is speaking at a Champs Sports Bowl event in Orlando at noon. Check back this afternoon.